Calgary member shares experience from Kitchener remote site

Kade T. Brown, a member of the Calgary congregation in Canada West Mission Centre, shares his thoughts from attending World Conference at the Kitchener remote site.

My experience in Kitchener attending World Conference has been a very powerful one; and here the Holy Spirit has indeed been evident in great abundance.
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Some highlights for me include the process prior to President Stassi Cramm’s ordination, where common consent was evident as we discussed this call. Contrastingly, holding discussions which could influence decision-making in my former tradition, the LDS or Mormon Church, was not welcomed. So, being able to have discussions as we do here at World Conference is quite refreshing, especially as a newer member of Community of Christ and a newly ordained priesthood member in this church. What a blessing it was to witness, and participate in, true, honest, and real common consent—especially for such a special office as Prophet-President.

Representing Canada through virtually being present to escort Stassi Cramm back into the Conference Chamber after our vote—it was an honour to be able to be part of that once the Conference body made its decision.

Another highlight of this Conference was Sister Cramm’s ordination. That service was Spirit-filled, and I feel confident that the church’s future will be bright as we listen and work in the mission of the Lord Jesus Christ, with the guidance of Prophet-President Cramm.

Furthermore, I very much appreciate the coming together of members throughout the world to discuss other matters of importance as a denomination. Even when we may not agree, I am grateful that we have the opportunity to listen and contribute.

In terms of having a remote site for Canada for future Conferences, this is something I definitely think we should continue to have whenever a World Conference is scheduled. This will be beneficial for a few reasons:

1. This lessens the amount of expense for the mission centres, congregations, and/or individuals, enabling more people to become delegates.
2.  Additionally, this makes it possible for those who wish to attend without needing to cross borders.
3. The conference experience is different remotely, though it is still a very full and enriching experience.
4. Moreover, having the availability of remote sites means that if a conference needs to be organized (i.e., for a leadership change), it can be more easily.

​I do recognize the challenges of these remote sites, such as audio or translation, but as this remote site idea takes off to hopefully become part of the plan in preparation for future World Conferences, those challenges will be solved over time if it becomes a recurring option for Conference.

Overall, I am very glad that I could attend this Conference in Kitchener, and I am very hopeful about the future of this church—my spiritual home! May Jesus the Christ lead us, guide us, and walk beside us as we journey together! Amen.